Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 3 (TIMP-3)

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 3 (TIMP-3) is a secreted glycoprotein and a unique member of the TIMP family that binds firmly to the extracellular matrix after secretion[1][4]. TIMP-3 is a broad-spectrum endogenous inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a disintegrin and metalloproteinases (ADAMs), and ADAMTSs, contributing to the maintenance of extracellular matrix integrity[1][4]. It has well-established roles in regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, and metastasis—functions that are crucial in pathologies such as cancer, osteoarthritis, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration[1][4]. Loss or downregulation of TIMP-3 is associated with increased tumor progression, metastasis, poor prognosis, and degenerative diseases; conversely, its overexpression is tumor-suppressive and antiangiogenic[1][4]. TIMP-3 is under investigation as both a prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target, though direct TIMP-3-targeting drugs have yet to be approved[1][4].

Other names

TIMP3Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3Metalloproteinase inhibitor 3

Inhibition of metalloproteinase (MMP, ADAM, ADAMTS) activity, leading to reduced extracellular matrix degradation, inhibition of angiogenesis, induction of apoptosis via stabilization of death receptors, and suppression of cell proliferation and metastasis[1][3][4].